ROMAN TELEZHYNSKYI

“VALENTINA” 0.7.
QUICK GUIDE

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EDITION V1.0, AUGUST 26, 2022

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“Valentina” 0.7. Quick guide
Roman Telezhynskyi∗
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Edition v1.0, September 12, 2022

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smart-pattern.com.ua

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e-mail: roman@smart-pattern.com.ua
Contents

Copyright 5

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About this book 7

What is “Valentina”? 9

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The project goals 11

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1 Installing 13
1.1 Source code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
1.2 Binary builds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
1.3 Launching . . . . . . . . . .
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1.4 Updating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

2 Making a pattern 19

3 Creating a detail 25
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4 Layout export 29

5 Tools 33
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5.1 Creating points . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

5.2 Creating lines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
5.3 Creating curves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
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5.4 Group operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

6 Parametric patterns 35
6.1 Formula . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
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6.2 Internal variables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

6.3 Increments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
6.4 Multiline formulas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
6.5 Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
6.5.1 Individual measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
6.5.2 Multisize measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
6.5.3 Separator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
6.6 Formula Wizard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

7 Detail 39
7.1 Main contour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
7.2 Seam allowance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
7.2.1 Types of corners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
7.3 Notches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

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7.4 Internal path . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

7.5 Place labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
7.6 Labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
7.7 Pin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
7.8 Inserting nodes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
7.9 Merging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
7.10Copying a detail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

8 Layout 43
8.1 Automatic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
8.1.1 Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
8.1.2 Export . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

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8.2 Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
8.2.1 Using . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

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8.2.2 Export . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

9 Additional features 45

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9.1 Background image . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
9.2 Exporting the drawing and details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
9.3 Final measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
9.4 Program settings . . . . . . . . . . . . ve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
9.4.1 Valentina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
9.4.2 Tape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
9.4.3 Puzzle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
9.5 Watermark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
9.6 Export and import of measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
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9.6.1 Export of measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

9.6.2 Import measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
9.7 Shortcuts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
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Frequently asked questions 63

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Index 65
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CONTENTS 6

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 COPYRIGHT

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Copyright © Roman Telezhynskyi, 2022
First published in Ukrainian language: «Валентина» 0.7. Короткий посiб-
ник, v1.0, 2022-06-29.

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Published in English language: “Valentina” 0.7. Quick guide, v1.0, 2022-07-10.
All rights reserved. This book is sold subject to the condition that it shall not,
by way of trade or otherwise, be lent, resold, hired out or otherwise circulated in
any form of binding or cover other than that in which it is published and without
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a similar condition including this condition being imposed on the subsequent
subscriber.
The same condition applies to the preview free version, as well as to further
and subsequent translations of this book and its preview version in any other
language.
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Copyright 8

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 ABOUT THIS BOOK

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Thank you for purchasing this guide and in this way supporting the de-
velopment of the project! The purpose of this book is to introduce you to the
basic features of the “Valentina” software.1 It focuses on the functionality of

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the software without examples of practical use. It will be useful to experienced
PC users and people who are familiar with pattern-making. In a short format,
we have included the main points about working in “Valentina” that, in our
experience, raise the most questions for beginners when getting to know the
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software. The book deliberately omits moments that, in our opinion, are intuitive
or necessary for a small circle of users.
This manual does not cover the subject of pattern making or pattern modelling.
The “Valentina” itself has no focus on a particular pattern making system, so it
does not impose any approaches on you. No advice will therefore be given on
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this matter. Knowledge of pattern making is desirable before reading the book,
although not essential, to simplify understanding of the material.
This book is primarily aimed at people who want a quick introduction to the
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basic features of “Valentina”. More experienced users of “Valentina” will find

the book useful to familiarise themselves with the new features when upgrading
to new versions.
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1
The current version of “Valentina” at the time of writing is v0.7.51.

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About this book 10

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 WHAT IS “VALENTINA”?

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“Valentina” is a software for creating clothes
patterns. Not all pattern-making software is
the same. In this sense, “Valentina” is different

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because it cannot be unambiguously classified
as a computer-aided design (CAD) system. At
present, “Valentina” performs only a fraction
of the processes available in classic CAD. The
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main difference is the ability to create paramet-
ric patterns.
The pattern parametrisation process allows
you to describe the pattern construction pro-
cess by setting rules. In the classical approach,
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this process is left out of the box. And we can

Figure 1: Valentina project logo only work with the finished result by modifying
the existing form. If the shape is exactly as we
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need it, it’s not a problem. However, if you need to recalculate to the new data,
difficulties arise. The new pattern requires manual creation. With a parametric
pattern, this problem does not arise. It already contains a creation description,
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so recalculation can be done automatically.

Don’t think of “Valentina” as a universal tool, because designing parametric
patterns is not an easy process and is not always appropriate. Designing involves
working with formulas and programming the computation logic. This is a technical
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process, not directly related to design issues. The emphasis in the work lies
on mathematics. That’s why if you’re not ready for it, “Valentina” won’t suit
you. Only choose it when you are looking for a way to simplify the possibility of
grading and redrawing a pattern by creating parametric drawings.
Not one of the available pattern making systems was emphasised in the design
of the “Valentina”. It can safely be considered a universal solution in this respect.
Capable, at a sufficient level, of being suitable for a wide range of pattern making
systems. If any of the components are missing, you can always contact the team
to suggest improvements.
Designing in software is different from what you are used to on paper or in
classic CAD. You should therefore be prepared for the fact that many of the
systems you know will not provide all the answers, because they are designed
for human control. Whoever figures out how to go that last mile first gets an
incredible result.

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What is “Valentina”? 12

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Figure 2: GPL licence logo

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“Valentina” is a set of programs. It includes an app for designing patterns
(Valentina), creating measurements (Tape) and working with manual layouts
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(Puzzle). It is distributed under the open source software model. The project
code is distributed under the GPL license (see fig. 2). This means that you can
freely download the application code, modify it and distribute your modification.
This model makes “Valentina” accessible to a wide range of users.2
If you are looking for a software to create parametric patterns then “Valentina”
is definitely something you should get familiar with.
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2
Assuming that users are familiar with how to compile a program.

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 THE PROJECT GOALS

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What was the goal of the authors of this project? Like everything, the project
started with an idea. Ideas to create something great. So the initial goal was
the desire to create. Then it got in touch with the problem of creating patterns

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and that’s how the idea for the tool was born. It was not yet “Valentina”, but its
prototypes. Time and many experiments have completed the development. As
they progressed, the list of targets started to get longer. To the desire to create
was added the idea of making parametric patterns. There aren’t many tools
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available that allow you to look at the process of creating parametric patterns
in practice. The method itself has been known for quite some time, but it is
considered difficult to achieve good results in this way. All right, then. Challenge
accepted! We believe that our tool will bring us closer to a time when no one will
find this idea too complicated anymore.
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Creating an accessible tool is not an easy task. It requires a lot of time and
resources. Resources that a group of enthusiasts does not have. Therefore,
the open source software model was chosen. After all, it brings the efforts of
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the community together to achieve common goals. We all have the same goal
– available powerful tool. There is a lot of clothing design software on the
market, but not many of them are available to the public. We understand the
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developers of such software, because development needs a lot of investment, but

we don’t like the inaccessibility of such solutions. Exactly to prove the mistake of
ignoring a significant number of potential users, we are working on this project.
In addition to the exorbitant price of the alternatives and their often complete
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disregard for the possibility of creating parametric drawings, the problem of

learning materials is also quite acute. Even if you have obtained the software
illegally, you still need to figure out exactly how to use it correctly. That’s why
one of our goals is to provide quality learning materials, of which the book
you are reading now is a part.
There are many obstacles on the road to perfection. Most users of the
“Valentina” are not familiar with programming, so they cannot fix bugs in the soft-
ware themselves, or add new functionality to it. That’s why technical support
is very important.
Over the years of development, the team, together with the community, has
managed to create an interesting tool that has attracted the attention of many
pattern makers. We still have a lot of work to do on our journey, for we still
have a lot to say! However, further development and achievement of our goals is
impossible without commercial success of the project. That is why the team

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The project goals 14

decided to start moving in this direction. After all, this does not contradict the
objectives we identified earlier.

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CHAPTER 1
INSTALLING

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“Valentina” is distributed in two main forms: binary and source code. This book
will not cover the installation phase in detail, as it is fairly well standardised

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and should already be familiar to the user who has already dealt with a personal
computer. Our aim is to introduce you to the main methods and to direct you to
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1.1 Source code
As previously mentioned “Valentina” is software distributed under the open
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source model1 . This means that you have the option of creating and installing a
version yourself from the available source code.
At first it may seem that only people with a technical background would
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be interested in such a method, but this is not entirely true. This method of
distribution should not be underestimated. After all, it offers so many benefits,
although it does require the learning of special skills. In order to fully possess
the “Valentina” one must at least be aware of the existence of such a method.
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And ideally know how to use it. We will therefore look at it in a little more detail.
In order to use this method you don’t need to know a programming language.
The process of creating a program from source code itself involves a set of steps
that simply need to be learned. People involved in these activities are usually
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referred to as maintainers. They are responsible for scripting, documenting,

building and packaging the finished versions of the programs. In fact, we owe it
to them to have so much software in the collections available to us for installation.
This method of distribution may be suitable for you if you:

• Wonder how it’s done. It’s not as difficult as it looks at first glance. Allows
you to be independent of other people and save money.

• You want to make sure that the version you receive does not contain any
harmful attachments. This can be important if you need to monitor what
code is running on your hardware. This can also include a code signing with
the developer’s keys.
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“Valentina” is distributed under the GPLv3+ license.

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1.1. SOURCE CODE 16

• You can adapt the generated binary code to the specifics of the personal
computer’s configuration. Normally a binary version is created for an av-
erage equipment profile and cannot take full advantage of all features. In
practice, this means a slower speed of program execution. Compiling the
program code with the hardware in mind may give a better result.
• Create your own versions. By this we mean both making our own changes
to the code, program resources and changing the installation scripts. Adap-
tation to other ways of distributing binary versions. Some of the popular
methods are still not supported by the project team.
• Create versions for platforms and architectures that are not officially sup-

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ported. Full freedom gives you the opportunity not to wait or ask for support,
but to do it yourself. This also includes preparing versions for OS versions
and platforms that are no longer officially supported. Developers, for various

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reasons, may already have withdrawn support for OS versions and platforms
that you still plan to use. In practice, this still means that it will be relatively
easy to get this support back if you compile the program code yourself.

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As we can see, this method of distribution allows you to fine-tune the tool to
suit your needs. For example, you don’t like an existing translation or you want
to add a new one. You want to replace an image or change text in the software
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interface. Or you have courses and want to make changes that would visually
set your version apart from the competitors. For example, add your own logo or
colours. You want to remove what you think are unnecessary resources from the
official version by reducing its size. Or you don’t like the way the official installer
works. Antivirus complains about it. You are able and willing to control the code
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your customers will use. Or you are planning to run “Valentina” on a server and
need a version adapted to your needs. Sanctions also impose restrictions, you
may not be allowed access to official versions, in which case creating your own
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version via source code may be a solution to this problem.

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Figure 1.1: Git logo

The creation process begins by gaining access to the source code of the
project. To do this you need to visit project repository . 2 , where you can find
it. Download the archive or use the distributed version control system (git) (see
fig. 1.1). Depending on the platform for which you are building your version of
the software, you will need to install the developer tools and run the compilation
process. The app will then be ready for use. It is common to additionally create
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https://gitlab.com/smart-pattern/valentina

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17 CHAPTER 1. INSTALLING

special installation scripts to make it easy to use and deploy. Depending on the
operating system, this may be an installer or a package. We will discuss forms of
distribution in more detail when we look at binary builds (section 1.2. “Binary
builds”).
A detailed description of the instructions is beyond the scope of this manual.
However, you can always consult the relevant literature and ask for support in
the community of the project and your operating system. Our aim is to give you
an overview of this method.

1.2 Binary builds

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Binary builds are the most popular way of distributing software. It allows you
to install and use the software quickly, without any technical knowledge. The

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“Valentina” project team is also making binary builds. In order to download one of
the available builds you need to visit the project’s official website special page . 3
and download the installer for your operating system.

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To select the correct file, you will need to know the name of your operating
system, as well as its version and bit-type. Then decide which version of the
software you want to install. You need to be able to find your way around this, as
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the project supports a wide range of operating systems and software versions.
And it’s easy to get lost in this list if you don’t know what you need. To make life
easier for newcomers, you can use the special section . 4 to help you choose the
right version of the software.
In order to properly deal with the versions of “Valentina”, you should know
that the program is currently divided into two branches: a stable branch and
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a test branch. The stable branch receives no new improvements. It only has
corrections for errors that have been found. Only choose it if you don’t want to
take the risk, or if you want to get to know the program. The test branch, on
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the other hand, contains all the latest changes. This makes it less stable, but it
is also more attractive because it allows you to start using the latest features
immediately. What can be critical when designing patterns. The project team
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recommends it if you plan to use “Valentina” professionally as a parametric

pattern design tool.
In order to distinguish between versions you need to look at their number. A
version number forming an even number will belong to the stable version and an
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odd number to the test version. For example, the numbers 0.6.x, 0.8.x, 0.10.x
will belong to the stable branch. The numbers 0.7.x, 0.9.x, 0.11.x – to the test
branch. Only the first two digits of the version, separated by a dot, should be
taken into account. To combine two digits into one, multiply the first digit by 10
and add the second digit to the result. X in our example means any number that
increments by one with each new release.
There are several forms of binary builds. Windows users can choose between
a version that has Windows support starting with Windows XP+ or Windows 7+.
The plus in the name indicates that the version will also work on newer versions
of the operating system. It is also possible to use a portable version that does
not require installation. All you need to do is download the file to your personal
computer, start the application and get started. Mac OS X users can also select
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https://smart-pattern.com.ua/ru/valentina/download/
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https://smart-pattern.com.ua/ru/valentina/download/journey/

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1.3. LAUNCHING 18

versions depending on which version of the OS is installed on their hardware.

There are also ready-to-use versions for some Linux distributions. However, we
recommend installing versions from the official distribution repositories, if such
have been created.
We recommend that you only download the version from official sources.
The official list includes the official project website as well as versions in the
distribution repositories. However, it is not uncommon to come across versions
on third-party websites. Be careful with these versions as they may be infected
with viruses or modified by attackers to compromise your system.
In most cases, binary versions is free of charge. However, maintainers may
decide to charge for their work and distribute their build for a fee. That’s allowed.
However, make sure that your money will get exactly the people you think it will.

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It is not uncommon for users to be misled and encouraged to transfer funds, but
the funds themselves are received by a third party with no connection to the

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developers.
After selecting the binary version you will need to download the file to your
computer if it is a package or installer. Or connect a repository, in the case of

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some Linux distributions. The next step is to follow the normal logic of installing
programs on your OS. A more detailed overview of this process is beyond the
scope of this guide.
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1.3 Launching
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Figure 1.2: Application “Valentina”

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19 CHAPTER 1. INSTALLING

To get started you must launch the program (see fig. 1.2). The method of
launching depends on the type of operating system used. This can be a shortcut
on the desktop, an item in the OS software list, a program file in the file navigator,
or launching through the opening of a file type associated with the program.

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Figure 1.3: The kit

Three applications are part of the package: Valentina, Tape and Puzzle (see
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fig. 1.3). In the case of the classic installer, you will have access to all three
programs separately. The portable version only allows you to access the main
application; all additional applications must be accessed via the corresponding
Valentina application menus. In the case of MacOS X, the classic version is the
portable form.
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1.4 Updating
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Figure 1.4: Dialog “Software Update”

Each time you start the app, it checks for updates. You need access to the
Internet to do this. If an update is found for your version, then you will have
three options to choose from (see fig. 1.4):

• Skip This Version – you will only see an update message when an even newer
version is released.

• Remind Me Later – the update option message will be hidden for a while.

• Get Update – in this case you will be redirected to the new version download
page on the website.

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1.4. UPDATING 20

If you have problems checking for new versions or do not want to

ÿ receive update messages, you can switch off checking for new updates
in the software settings.

To run the update check manually, open the “About” dialog in menu Help .
And press the “Check For Updates” button. In the same dialog, you will find
information about the version of the app you are currently using.

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CHAPTER 2
MAKING A PATTERN

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Figure 2.1: Example of a pattern

In the next three sections we will look into the basics of working in the main
application (Valentina) from the Valentina project set. We will get to know the
other two in time.
The pattern-making process is roughly divided into three stages: drawing,
details, layout. These in turn correspond to three operation modes: “Drawing
mode”, “Details mode”, “Layout mode” (see fig. 2.2). In this chapter we will
look at the basics of creating a drawing in “Drawing mode”. The other two will
be discussed in the following chapters. To switch to details or layout mode, at

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Figure 2.2: Operation modes

least one detail must be created. Understanding the basics of the first mode is
therefore very important.
The principles by which drawings are constructed in “Valentina” are slightly
different from common practice. Our aim is not simply to reproduce the posi-
tions of points, lines and curves on the canvas, but to set the rules for their

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interdependency. Parametrization is another step towards smart patterns.
Let’s divide the approaches to working with patterns into generations. The

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first generation is a raster image. Drawing an image of lines or curves on paper
or a monitor screen. There is no possibility of making any changes. To do so,
you must erase the image or part of it and draw it in again. Concepts such as a

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line or a curve exist only in our imagination. The computer in this case operates
with individual blocks of canvas – the pixels. This method is still very popular. It
allows you to concentrate on the main thing and is often used as a way of saving
already completed patterns for sale or as storage medium.
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As you know, images are subdivided into raster and vector images. In the case
of technical drawings, the idea of vector images comes in handy. This is because
we are now operating with a set of basic primitives: points, curves, complex
polygons, the list can be rather enormous. By changing their parameters: size,
position, angle, outline colour, fill colour, pen thickness, etc., you can create
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images. The use of vector images is what we will refer to as the second generation.
The main advantages of vector images are the ability to edit the parameters
of basic primitives at any time and the simplicity of scaling. Such images are
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already easy to create, but without adapting to the need for pattern-making, it is
not as easy to work with.
The third generation is the logical progression from the second. The vector
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image is handled in software adapted to these needs. At its core, the process is not
that different. Such software is convenient because it is pattern-making oriented.
Other sets of basic primitives, additional tools, collections of ready-made blocks.
The big advantage of this generation is the modelling unit, which allows complex
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transformations to be made easily over the finished piece contours. Although

such advanced modelling is not directly related to the subject of our discussion –
pattern-making.
Finally, the fourth generation. We include “Valentina” as part of it. The vector
image is advancing to a new level. Whereas the previous level is characterised
by a set of objects being placed in “random” order, the parametric pattern in
“Valentina” requires that the order in which the objects are placed be organised.
This allows a quick rebuild or gradation of the pattern. The advanced toolkit
of “Valentina” makes it quite easy to parametrize a pattern, but the modelling
process still needs improvement.
To start working on a new pattern, start the “Valentina” app and select “New”.
Set a name for the drawing and select units (see fig. 2.3). The scene and tools
will then be available to you.

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23 CHAPTER 2. MAKING A PATTERN

Figure 2.3: Creating a new project

* Measurement units cannot be changed later.

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Figure 2.4: List of pattern pieces
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When working with a pattern file, you must treat one file as a project.
“Valentina” supports the conditional splitting of the project into several drawings.
Each such drawing allows you to group sets of objects and details under one
name. You can only work with one drawing at a time. The active drawing is
selected via the drop-down list (see fig. 2.4). When the active drawing is selected,
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objects from all other drawings become inactive.

The drawing list is sorted alphabetically. To control the order of the

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drawings in the list, add a number in front of the name.

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Figure 2.5: Base point

Each drawing has one mandatory object, the base point. The base point is the
origin of coordinates for objects for the entire drawing. You can use this object
to move the drawing to a new position or delete the drawing from the project.
The base point is easy to find on the drawing it always has a red circle colour
(see fig. 2.5).

á If the project consists of a single drawing, it cannot be deleted.

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 24

Figure 2.6: Direction of coordinates

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The two-dimensional space on which the construction takes place has a coor-

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dinate grid with the origin at (0; 0). The X coordinate increases from left to right
and the Y coordinate from top to bottom (see fig. 2.6). You can only manipulate
the coordinates directly in the case of a base point. For all other objects, the

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coordinates are calculated in relation to their base objects. Origin is also used in
cases where values cannot be calculated as a default value. It is there that you
should look for the point in case of calculation errors.
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Figure 2.7: Working with angles

The angle values in “Valentina” are measured counterclockwise (see fig. 2.7).
Zero degrees starts from the left to the right of the point on the horizontal.
Negative values indicate clockwise movement.

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25 CHAPTER 2. MAKING A PATTERN

In order to change the scale, you can use the toolbar, menu Pattern piece or the
mouse wheel with the Ctrl key pressed.
To the left of the canvas you will find a toolbar, conventionally organised
into groups. To activate the tool, click on it with the left mouse button and
follow the prompts at the bottom of the window. Depending on the type of
instrument selected, you will need to select objects in the scene and enter
additional parameters.
To edit an object, hover the mouse cursor over it and click the right mouse
button to call up the context menu. And then select “Options”. To quickly access
an object’s parameters, simply highlight it by left-clicking on it. Afterwards, make
changes to the “Tool Options”.

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If the “Tool Options” tab is not active, you can activate it in the menu
ÿ Window .

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Currently, the program does not have the ability to fully trace all dependencies
between objects, so deletion and editing options are limited. If the delete option

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is inactive, it must first be activated. Deletion is only possible in reverse order.
You must first manually delete any objects that depend on this object, only then
will you be able to remove it. If an object is used in a detail, that detail must first
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be deleted.

If you cannot unlock the delete option, try closing and opening the file
ÿ again. Sometimes this helps to update the dependency information.

When placing objects on the canvass, linking to existing objects is mandatory.

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For example, for a segment, you need to specify the starting point of the segment,
as well as the length and angle. Other types of tools may require a greater
number of references. The tool types for “Drawing mode” will be covered in
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5. “Tools”. You can select reference objects either by left-clicking on the circle or
by clicking on the point label. Follow the visual prompts provided to you by the
software to confirm registration of your selection.
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Visual tips include changing the colour and thickness of lines as well
á as changing the mouse cursor.
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To save a new file, select File Save As . Give the file a name and choose a place
to save it.

Remember to save your progress regularly and back it up on file to

ÿ avoid the possibility of losing data.

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 26

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CHAPTER 3
CREATING A DETAIL

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Figure 3.1: Details

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Creating a pattern drawing is just the beginning. In order to be able to print

or export our pattern, the detail must first be created. Working with details takes
place in “Details mode”, but before you can switch to this mode, you must first
create at least one detail.
To create a detail, you need to describe the main contour of the detail. To do
this, select the “Workpiece tool” in “Drawing mode”. Follow the program tips
and select the main contour of the detail. Select objects in a clockwise direction.
Complete the selection by pressing the Enter button, if you have done it correctly,
the OK button will be active. You only need to confirm the creation of the new
detail by pressing OK .

Working with other workpiece parameters takes place after the main
ÿ contour has been created, so is not available at the start of workpiece
creation (see fig. 3.2).

27
 28

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Figure 3.2: Completing detail creation

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29 CHAPTER 3. CREATING A DETAIL

After creating a detail, you must switch to “Details mode” to continue working
with it. Call the detail options dialogue via the context menu to continue with
the settings.

á More detailed configuration of the piece will be covered in 7. “Detail”.

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CHAPTER 4
LAYOUT EXPORT

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Figure 4.1: The arranged details

Creating a layout is one way of preparing data for export. To do this, you must
first create at least one workpiece. To create a layout, go to “Layout mode”. If the
layout has not yet been created, the layout settings dialogue will automatically
be activated. All you need to do is set the settings correctly and start the creation
process.
The most common mistake when creating a layout is to choose the wrong
layout paper format (see fig. 4.2). The paper size refers to the space available to
arrange the workpieces. It should not be mistaken for the final printing format,
such as A4. The splitting into individual tiles for printing on A4 takes place in a
later step.

31
 32

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Figure 4.2: Configuring the automatic layout

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33 CHAPTER 4. LAYOUT EXPORT

If you plan to print your layout in the future, you should also set the printer’s
margins correctly. Leave enough space around the edges of the sheet to allow
the image to be printed completely.
Once you have completed the layout process, you will have access to printing
functions as well as exporting the layout. For this you can use the menu File
Layout , or the appropriate tool on the Layout tab.

á For more details on the layout, see 8. “Layout”.

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CHAPTER 5
TOOLS

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W This part is not available in the preview version of the book. Buy the

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full version in order to access the whole content.

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This and many other books can be found on our website smart-
pattern.com.ua . .

5.1 Creating points

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full version in order to access the whole content.

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ÿ This and many other books can be found on our website smart-
pattern.com.ua . .
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5.2 Creating lines

W This part is not available in the preview version of the book. Buy the
full version in order to access the whole content.

ÿ This and many other books can be found on our website smart-
pattern.com.ua . .

35
5.3. CREATING CURVES 36

5.3 Creating curves

W This part is not available in the preview version of the book. Buy the
full version in order to access the whole content.

ÿ This and many other books can be found on our website smart-
pattern.com.ua . .

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5.4 Group operations

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full version in order to access the whole content.

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ÿ This and many other books can be found on our website smart-
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smart-pattern.com.ua
CHAPTER 6
PARAMETRIC PATTERNS

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full version in order to access the whole content.

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This and many other books can be found on our website smart-
pattern.com.ua . .

6.1 Formula
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full version in order to access the whole content.

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ÿ This and many other books can be found on our website smart-
pattern.com.ua . .
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6.2 Internal variables

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full version in order to access the whole content.

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pattern.com.ua . .

37
6.3. INCREMENTS 38

6.3 Increments

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full version in order to access the whole content.

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pattern.com.ua . .

6.4 Multiline formulas

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full version in order to access the whole content.

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ÿ This and many other books can be found on our website smart-
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6.5 Measurements
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full version in order to access the whole content.
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ÿ This and many other books can be found on our website smart-
pattern.com.ua . .
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6.5.1 Individual measurements

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W This part is not available in the preview version of the book. Buy the
full version in order to access the whole content.

ÿ This and many other books can be found on our website smart-
pattern.com.ua . .

6.5.2 Multisize measurements

W This part is not available in the preview version of the book. Buy the
full version in order to access the whole content.

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39 CHAPTER 6. PARAMETRIC PATTERNS

ÿ This and many other books can be found on our website smart-
pattern.com.ua . .

6.5.3 Separator

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full version in order to access the whole content.

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6.6 Formula Wizard

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full version in order to access the whole content.
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ÿ This and many other books can be found on our website smart-
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6.6. FORMULA WIZARD 40

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CHAPTER 7
DETAIL

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full version in order to access the whole content.

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This and many other books can be found on our website smart-
pattern.com.ua . .

7.1 Main contour

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full version in order to access the whole content.

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7.2 Seam allowance

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full version in order to access the whole content.

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pattern.com.ua . .

41
7.3. NOTCHES 42

7.2.1 Types of corners

W This part is not available in the preview version of the book. Buy the
full version in order to access the whole content.

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7.3 Notches

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7.4 Internal path
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full version in order to access the whole content.
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pattern.com.ua . .

7.5 Place labels

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W This part is not available in the preview version of the book. Buy the
full version in order to access the whole content.

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pattern.com.ua . .

7.6 Labels

W This part is not available in the preview version of the book. Buy the
full version in order to access the whole content.

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43 CHAPTER 7. DETAIL

ÿ This and many other books can be found on our website smart-
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7.7 Pin

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full version in order to access the whole content.

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7.8 Inserting nodes

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full version in order to access the whole content.
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7.9 Merging
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full version in order to access the whole content.

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pattern.com.ua . .

7.10 Copying a detail

W This part is not available in the preview version of the book. Buy the
full version in order to access the whole content.

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7.10. COPYING A DETAIL 44

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CHAPTER 8
LAYOUT

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full version in order to access the whole content.

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8.1 Automatic
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full version in order to access the whole content.

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8.1.1 Settings

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45
8.2. MANUAL 46

8.1.2 Export

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8.2 Manual

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8.2.1 Using
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8.2.2 Export
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W This part is not available in the preview version of the book. Buy the
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pattern.com.ua . .

smart-pattern.com.ua
CHAPTER 9
ADDITIONAL FEATURES

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A number of optional features of “Valentina” extend the functionality of the
software, but are not mandatory, so they are placed in a separate chapter.

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Figure 9.1: Example of a background image

The background image function (see fig. 9.1) allows you to add background
images in Drawing mode. Such images can be used for many purposes:

• Reproducing the shape of already existing patterns.

• Use as a ruler to draw smooth curves.

• Putting decorative images, such as embroidery, to make it easier to design

a model.

• Adding an image of the future product to make it easier to design.

47
9.2. EXPORTING THE DRAWING AND DETAILS 48

Both raster and vector format images are supported for use as background
images. If possible, it is recommended to use vector images as they support zoom
without loss of image quality.
You can move the image to the desired position, resize the image, set the
rotation angle and fix the position on the scene.
If you are using a background image to port already finished details to a
“Valentina”, you need to take care of matching the scale of your background
image to the scale of the “Valentina”. In this case you need to know the linear
dimensions of the detail and you need to set off the same distance with “Valentina”.
All you have to do is to position the workpiece correctly and make the control
lines to match the size. To do this you can use the rotation and scaling functions.
After achieving the desired result, it is necessary to disable the transformation

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parameters of the background image, in order to do so, it must be fixed.

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Figure 9.2: Adding a background image

Adding an image is possible in two modes: as an embedded image and as

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a link to a file (see fig. 9.2). The embedded image is saved in the pattern file
and you don’t have to worry about location of the image file. It does, however,
increase the file size. When adding only a link, only the path to the file is written.
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You should make sure that the application is always able to find the image file.
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9.2 Exporting the drawing and details

In addition to exporting the layout, “Valentina” supports the export of drawings
and details.
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Export drawing allows exporting drawing image for further work. To export,
activate the tool from the toolbar and select the path and name of the new file
(see fig. 9.3a). Export is only possible in SVG format. The resulting image will
contain all drawings of the object with objects visible at the time of export.
Exporting details avoids the need to create a layout for cases where it is not
necessary (see fig. 9.3b). You may find direct export of details useful if you plan
to create a layout yourself in Puzzle or a third-party application. Or you only
need details data for further work without needing to keep them compact. For
example, for importing for a virtual fitting on a 3D mannequin.

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49 CHAPTER 9. ADDITIONAL FEATURES

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(b) Exporting details

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(a) Exporting a drawing

Figure 9.3: Tools for exporting drawing and details

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9.3. FINAL MEASUREMENTS 50

9.3 Final measurements

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Figure 9.4: Dialog “Final measurements”
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The final measurements allow you to get measurements values after the
drawing has been calculated (see fig. 9.4). Such data is useful in production, as
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it allows you to control during production.

In order to export, final measurement records must be created, using a special
dialog window. Each record should have a name and a formula for the calcula-
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tion. Additionally, a description can be added to document the purpose of the

measurement. Use menu
menu[,]Measurements,Final measurements to activate the dialogue window.
The final measurements are exported in CSV format. Use menu Measurements
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Export final measurements to CSV .

9.4 Program settings

To change application settings, you will need to use the Properties dialogue. Each
of the three applications in the “Valentina” suite has its own dialog. Some settings
are common, so you only need to configure them in one of the applications. In all
cases use menu File Properties to open the dialog.
To apply the changes, press the OK button.

á In this book we will not look at all the settings, but only the most
important ones.

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51 CHAPTER 9. ADDITIONAL FEATURES

9.4.1 Valentina
The settings in the main application are divided into three main sections: Config-
uration, Pattern, Paths.

Configuration

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Figure 9.5: Section “Configuration”

Section “Configuration” is responsible for global program settings (see fig. 9.5).
Autosave of the modified pattern allows you to create a backup copy of the
last changes. It is recommended to leave this function on. However, you should
not forget to create backups.
This is where you can change the interface language.

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9.4. PROGRAM SETTINGS 52

The “Decimal separator” setting allows you to control the type of decimal
separator. This can be either a dot or a comma. The change will affect how the
formula will be displayed.
“Point label language” allows you to control the alphabet of automatically
generated point labels. For each new drawing the next free letter from the
alphabet is taken. For example, for the first drawing the labels A1, A2, A3 etc.
will be used. The second drawing will already have labels B1, B2, B3 etc.
Activate “Free curve mode” to make dynamic curve modification more com-
fortable. In free curve mode, changes in the drawing only take place after the
user releases the curve. This avoids wasting time rebuilding the drawing at the
slightest change in the position of the curve.
For each type of operating system, there are standard file dialogs such as

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“Open file”, “Save file” etc. The use of the native file dialogs is recommended
when using the program. However, there may be situations where such dialogs

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do not work correctly. In such cases it is possible to switch to the built-in versions.
These have a unified appearance for all OS types, but are lacking in functionality
compared to the native file dialogs.

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Pattern
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The “Pattern” section allows to customize the appearance of the drawing and
also to set default values for some parameters (see fig. 9.6).
Using OpenGL allows faster rendering of the drawing image, putting this on
the shoulders of the graphics card and freeing up CPU resources. The system
must have support for this feature to activate. If not, you will see a black screen
instead of a drawing field. In this case rendering should be disabled.
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“Valentina” does not require extensive calculations to create a pattern

á image, so the OpenGL effect can be minimal.
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“Curve Approximation” allows you to control the accuracy of Bezier curve

calculations. The higher the value, the more points will be involved in drawing
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the curve, and the smoother it will be. The value applied to all curves which have
a default approximation value – 0.
The “Show the second notch on the seam line” setting allows the user to
activate the display of the second notch on the seam line.
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The Known materials management dialog allows to create a list of known ma-
terials, which can then be used to define placeholder values (see section 7.6. “La-
bels”).

Paths
The “Paths” section allows you to configure default paths for common directories
using “Valentina” (see fig. 9.7).

9.4.2 Tape
The Tape settings options are similar to “Valentina”, so we won’t cover them in
detail.

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53 CHAPTER 9. ADDITIONAL FEATURES

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Figure 9.6: Section “Pattern”

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9.4. PROGRAM SETTINGS 54

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Figure 9.7: Section “Paths”

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55 CHAPTER 9. ADDITIONAL FEATURES

9.4.3 Puzzle

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Figure 9.8: Section “Configration”

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Similarly to the main application, Puzzle settings are divided into three main
sections: configuration, layout, paths (see fig. 9.8).
For us, the biggest interest is the Layout section (see fig. 9.9). The other two
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have similar options to the main application.

Layout
Settings in the Layout section allow you to set a default value for the layout
project. This means you don’t have to waste time adjusting the layout settings
every time.
Particularly noteworthy is the “Line width” parameter. It controls the width of
the pieces on the scene. At the same time, this value will affect the export and
print parameters, based on the principle of what you see is what you get.

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9.4. PROGRAM SETTINGS 56

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Figure 9.9: Section “Layout”

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57 CHAPTER 9. ADDITIONAL FEATURES

9.5 Watermark

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Figure 9.10: Watermark example

Placing logos and signatures is a frequent way to protect one’s intellectual

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property (see fig. 9.10). “Valentine” allows you to add a watermark when printing
or exporting a PDF tile. Adding watermark is supported for both automatic and
manual layouts.
In both cases to add a watermark it is necessary to first create a special file
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with watermark settings and then attach it to a pattern or manual layout (see
fig. 9.11).
In the watermark settings you can add a text and an image. Select the level
of transparency for them, as well as the rotation angle.
The watermark is always placed in the centre of the tile sheet.
Preview is only possible when working with manual layout (see fig. 9.12). If
a watermark has been added to the file, it will be automatically added when
exporting the PDF with tiles.

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9.5. WATERMARK 58

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Figure 9.11: Watermark editor

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Figure 9.12: Previewing the watermark in the Puzzle app

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59 CHAPTER 9. ADDITIONAL FEATURES

9.6 Export and import of measurements

For data exchange with third-party applications, Tape provides export and im-
port data in CSV format. CSV (comma-separated values, sometimes character-
separated values) is a text file format for exchanging tabular data. With its
simplicity, it allows easy exporting and importing of measurement tables.

9.6.1 Export of measurements

In order to export the measurements, use menu
File Export to CSV . After that select directory and new file name in special dialog

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window.

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Figure 9.13: Configuring the export of measurements to CSV

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To complete the export, you must specify CSV settings (see fig. 9.13). Depend-
ing on your needs, you can add headers to your table columns. Choose the right
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codec for your needs. You can also select the desired separator from a choice of
four available separators.

The type of codec you use will affect the encoding of the data. An
W incorrect choice may result in corrupted data. Unless required by an
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third party application, it is best to use the universal utf-8 encoding.

The choice of delimiter affects the export settings in the third-party

ÿ application. For this reason, it is best to remember the separator type.

When exporting measurements, the result will always correspond to the cur-
rent state of the table. In the case of multi-dimensional tables, its impossible to
export all possible variants at once using this method.

9.6.2 Import measurements

In order to import measurements, use menu
File Import from CSV . Select file for import and make initial settings (see fig. 9.14).

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9.6. EXPORT AND IMPORT OF MEASUREMENTS 60

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Figure 9.14: Configuring measurements import to CSV

During the initial setup phase, you will need to tell the software the structure of
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your file. Determine whether the table has a row with column headers. Determine
the correct codec used to create the file. Also specify the data separator. When
selecting parameters, the preview field will help you to understand if your settings
are correct. If everything is specified correctly, the table will have the correct
shape with rows, header and columns defined in the correct places.
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Once the CSV file parameters have been specified, the correct column order for
import must be specified. The process for individual and multisize measurements
is slightly different, but has the same principles.
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The “Input data” field shows the content of the file as it is. The table content
in the “Import” field must match the headers defined by the program. Use the
drop-down lists in the “Columns” section to specify the correct number for each
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column. Columns with an asterisk (*) are required for identification. Each column
must have a unique value. An optional column can be skipped. If a file contains
more columns than required by the program, they will be ignored.
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To quick identify the column number of the table, trigger the tooltip
ÿ by hovering and holding the mouse pointer over the header name in
the “Input data”.

In case of individual measurements (see fig. 9.15) you need to specify import
order for four columns. Two of which are optional.
In the case of multisize measurements, you need to specify import order for
seven columns. Two of which are optional.

The number of required columns depends on the parameters of the

á multisize table.

After configuring the column order, the records of the imported measurements
will be added to the file. The existing data in the table will not be overwritten.

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61 CHAPTER 9. ADDITIONAL FEATURES

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Figure 9.15: Configuring the columns for importing individual measurements
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Figure 9.16: Configuring the columns for importing multisize measurements

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9.7. SHORTCUTS 62

If the file already contains a measurement with the same name, the
W import will crash.

Import and export have different purposes and therefore different data
) structures. Therefore, they are not mutually compatible. Importing
previously exported data requires additional configuration.

9.7 Shortcuts
Using the mouse is not the only way to interact with the program interface.

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Typical operations are often quicker to perform if you know the special keyboard
shortcuts. “Valentina” supports a number of keyboard shortcuts for typical tasks

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that you can use in your work.

Currently, “Valentina” does not allow you to assign your own shortcuts
á

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to actions.

The above shortcuts will be oriented specifically towards Windows

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á users. Therefore, the Ctrl must be replaced with the appropriate one
for your OS. Cmd for Mac OS X, and Alt for Haiku OS.

Some keyboard shortcuts may not work if they are not compatible
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* with your OS type.

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Shortcut Action
Ctrl + N New file
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Ctrl + S Save
Ctrl + + S Save as
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Ctrl + W Drawing mode

Ctrl + E Details mode
Ctrl + L Layout mode
+ Ctrl + N New drawing
Ctrl + H History
Ctrl + + Zoom in
Ctrl + - Zoom out
Ctrl + = Zoom fit best
Ctrl + 0 Original zoom
Ctrl + Z Undo

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63 CHAPTER 9. ADDITIONAL FEATURES

Shortcut Action
+ Ctrl + Z Redo
Ctrl + T Variables Table
Del. Delete object
Ctrl + Q Exit
L Activate the last used tool
Ctrl + PgUp Previous drawing
Next drawing

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Ctrl + PgDown

Esc Cancel tool selection

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+ + Increase label font
+ - Decrease label font

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+ 0 Original label font
Alt + L Hide all labels on the drawing
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Table 9.1: Valentina app shortcuts

Shortcut Action
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Ctrl + N New file

Ctrl + O Open
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Ctrl + S Save
Ctrl + + S Save as
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Move the detail one pixel upwards

Moving the detail one pixel downwards
Moving the detail one pixel to the right
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Moving the detail one pixel to the left

Ctrl + Moving the detail ten pixels upwards
Ctrl + Moving the detail ten pixels downwards
Ctrl + Moving the detail ten pixels to the right
Ctrl + Moving the detail ten pixels to the left
, Del. Delete a detail from the sheet
[ Turn the detail 15° to the left
] Turn the detail 15° to the right
Ctrl + [ Turn the detail 90° to the left

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9.7. SHORTCUTS 64

Shortcut Action
Ctrl + ] Turn the detail 90° to the right
Alt + [ Turn the detail 1° to the left
Alt + ] Turn the detail 1° to the right
Home Move the detail to the front
Up Move the detail position vertically upwards
Down Move the detail position vertically downwards
Move the detail to the background

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End

Ctrl + + Zoom in

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Ctrl + - Zoom out
Ctrl + = Zoom fit best

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Ctrl + 0 Original zoom
Ctrl + Z Undo
+

Ctrl + Q
Ctrl + Z Redo
Exit
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Table 9.2: Puzzle app shortcuts
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 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

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This chapter contains frequently asked questions and their answers.

How much is the price of “Valentina”?

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This question can be answered with a counter-question: “How much costs
freedom?”. As a matter of fact, “Valentina” is a project distributed under the
open source software model. The philosophy of this movement guarantees
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the right for users to modify and distribute their modifications. In practice,
this means that its components are available absolutely for free. On the
other hand, it does not guarantee absolutely cost-free. Practice has shown
that projects like “Valentina” need constant maintenance on code, writing
tutorials and support. And this is where the price of freedom becomes
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clear. The user must choose between working independently to improve the
project, or paying other people to do the work. You should always consider
this factor when choosing a “Valentina”. Are you prepared to pay the
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price of freedom?

Can I sell my patterns and teach the program to others?

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Yes. The project team or license does not restrict you in this way. You also
do not need to receive permission to do so. Freedom in all its beauty.

I have not paid anything to the authors of the project and I am using it
for free. Do I have the right to hide the pattern files?
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Yes, according to the licence you have the right to do so. No person has the
right to force you to publish details of your patterns.

How does grading work in “Valentina”?

When you create a pattern, you parameterise it. The more skilfully the
pattern is designed, the better the grading will be. The basis of parame-
terisation includes formulas and logical expressions, as well as the laws of
geometry. Grading is done by recalculating the parameters with the new
input data: measurements and increments (see section 6.3. “Increments”).

Does “Valentina” support modelling?

Yes, “Valentina” supports modelling. But modelling operations are by nature

far more complex than in classical CAD systems, which can put off many

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Frequently asked questions 66

newcomers. However, once you have passed the barrier, the software will
rebuild your drawing itself, which cannot be done with classic systems.

I can’t open the file anymore, what should I do?

Don’t panic! If you are an experienced user, you can try to recover the file
yourself. We recommend that you contact the developers for assistance.
Usually the files are very easy to recover. You will get help!

What types of printers/plotters does “Valentina” support?

“Valentina” does not restrict your choice of printer or plotter. Any printer
that your operating system supports will do.

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Can I run “Valentina” on a tablet or smartphone?

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“Valentina” has been adapted to work with desktop operating systems. There
is no special version adapted to work on a tablet or smartphone. There are
no plans to create such versions either.

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What should I do if the pattern was printed at the wrong scale?

In most cases these problems occur when printing a PDF in a third-party

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application. Very often such applications will, by default, scale the image so
that it fits entirely on a sheet of paper. Exactly this effect you need to avoid.
To do this, make sure that the application in which the PDF is printed is set
to 100% scale.
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Part of the pattern image is not printed on the edges of the sheet. What
can I do to fix this?

This effect occurs when the printer’s margin settings are not enough for the
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printer on which you are printing. Printer margins are the area around the
edges of the sheet where the printer cannot print over. Each printer model
has its own minimum values for margins. You should take this into account
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when preparing the files. Select enough values for the left, right, top and
bottom margins in Valentina or Puzzle before exporting.

Where can I get support if I have a question?

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If you have a question or problem while working with “Valentina” you can
use one of the contacts published on our website . .

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 INDEX

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B layout mode, 19
background image, 45
base point, 21 M

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measurements
C individual, 36
CSV, 57 ve multisize, 36
D measurments
Details mode, 27 separator, 37
details mode, 19
drawing mode, 19 O
origin, 22
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E
export S
detail, 46 settings, 48
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drawing, 46 shortcuts, 60
final measurements, 48 Puzzle, 61
layout, 29, 44 Valentina, 60
measurements, 57
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T
F
tool
final measurements, 48
workpiece, 25
formula
toolbar, 23
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Multiline formula, 36
I U
import updating, 17
measurements, 58
installing, 13 V
binary builds, 15 variable
source-code, 13 measurement, 36

L W
Layout mode, 29 watermark, 55

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